Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has inaugurated the Negele Borena Geda Airport, the 24th domestic destination for Ethiopian Airlines. This launch advances the government’s mission to expand regional air links and stimulate economic development.

A new airport has opened in Ethiopia as the government continues its drive to expand regional air links. The Negele Borena Geda Airport, inaugurated by Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, is Ethiopian Airlines' 24th domestic destination.

Every new runway we build bridges a gap, unlocks regional economic potential, and brings our people closer together, the prime minister stressed. He also praised Ethiopian Airlines, Africa's largest carrier, as the company marks its 80th anniversary this year. He called it the pride of Africa and the New Spirit of Africa.

The inaugurated airport is one of four new domestic airports Ethiopian Airlines announced earlier this year as part of a broader expansion drive aimed at improving connectivity across the country. In March, local media reported that the carrier planned to launch new hubs in Negele Borena, Gore Mettu, Mizan Aman, and Debre Markos. Ethiopian Airlines CEO Mesfin Tasew said the projects would expand the airline's domestic network from 23 to 27 destinations.

The expansion comes as Ethiopia advances plans for Bishoftu International Airport, which is expected to become Africa's largest aviation hub. Construction began in January after the mega-project was unveiled in 2025 to ease growing pressure on Addis Ababa Bole International Airport.

In April, local media, citing data from US aircraft manufacturer Boeing, reported that Ethiopian Airlines had converted options for six Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners into a firm order. The carrier now flies to more than 145 international passenger and cargo destinations. It maintains a fleet of over 170 aircraft — including Airbus models — with an average aircraft age of about seven years.

Key Facts

  • The Negele Borena Geda Airport is designed to handle larger and more advanced aircraft, including the Boeing 737 Max.
  • Ethiopian Airlines will begin operations immediately at the new airport, with three weekly flights.
  • The airport is one of four new domestic airports Ethiopian Airlines announced earlier this year.
  • The expansion drive is aimed at improving connectivity across the country.
  • Ethiopian Airlines has a fleet of over 170 aircraft, with an average age of about seven years.

The new airport improves regional accessibility by providing direct transit routes. The expansion drive is aimed at reducing travel times and enhancing economic opportunities for the people of Ethiopia.

The inauguration of the Negele Borena Geda Airport marks a milestone in Ethiopia's journey towards improved air connectivity. As the country continues to grow and develop, the need for efficient and reliable transportation infrastructure has become increasingly important.

Ethiopian Airlines' 80th Anniversary

This year marks the 80th anniversary of Ethiopian Airlines, one of Africa's largest and most successful airlines. Founded in 1945, the airline has come a long way in its journey to become a leading player in the aviation industry. As the country celebrates this milestone, the inauguration of the Negele Borena Geda Airport serves as a tribute to the airline's commitment to growth and development.

We are proud to mark this important milestone with the inauguration of the new Negele Borena Geda Airport. This airport will play a crucial role in connecting the people of Ethiopia and enhancing economic opportunities.

  • Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed

The new airport will serve as a vital hub for regional air travel, connecting the southern region to the rest of the country and the world. With a growing economy and a rapidly developing infrastructure, Ethiopia is positioned to become a major player in the global aviation industry.

The inauguration of the Negele Borena Geda Airport reflects the government's commitment to improving air connectivity across the country. As Ethiopia continues to grow and develop, the need for efficient and reliable transportation infrastructure has become increasingly important.

The Negele Borena Geda Airport facilitates regional growth by allowing for faster transport of goods and passengers. With its state-of-the-art facilities and modern aircraft, the airport is well-positioned to become a major hub for regional air travel.

The Road Ahead

The inauguration of the Negele Borena Geda Airport marks a milestone in Ethiopia's journey towards improved air connectivity. As the country continues to grow and develop, the need for efficient and reliable transportation infrastructure has become increasingly important. The new airport serves as a tool for achieving this goal.

The expansion of Ethiopian Airlines' domestic network will have a positive impact on the country's economy and society. The new airport will create jobs, stimulate economic growth, and enhance connectivity for the people of Ethiopia.

The Negele Borena Geda Airport supports a brighter future for Ethiopia. With its cutting-edge facilities and modern aircraft, the airport is well-positioned to become a major hub for regional air travel.

The inauguration of the Negele Borena Geda Airport marks a milestone in Ethiopia's journey towards improved air connectivity. The expansion of Ethiopian Airlines' domestic network will have a positive impact on the country's economy and society. The new airport helps secure a brighter future for Ethiopia.

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